NBC's Directive Sparks Outcry Over Press Freedom in Nigeria

On April 17, 2026, the National Broadcasting Corporation (NBC) issued a controversial directive warning broadcast journalists to refrain from expressing personal opinions and to maintain neutrality, particularly as Nigeria approaches a critical electoral period. This directive has drawn severe criticism from various stakeholders, including Amnesty International and the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), who argue that it threatens press freedom and undermines the independence of the media.

Isa Sanusi, the Executive Director of Amnesty International Nigeria, described the directive as a regressive move reminiscent of Nigeria's military era, asserting that it seeks to stifle dissent and control the media landscape. The NGE warned that such measures amount to an assault on democratic principles and press independence, emphasizing the importance of allowing journalists to hold public officials accountable.

The directive has raised questions about the NBC's motivations and its impact on the freedom of expression in Nigeria's vibrant broadcast media environment.